A company is deciding which box to use for their

merchandise. The first box measures 8 inches by 6.25 inches

by 10.5 inches. The second box measures 9 inches by 5.5

inches by 11.75 inches. Which box required more material to

make?

Total surface area of first box = 2 (8 * 6.25) + 2 (8 * 10.5) + 2 (6.25 * 10.5) = 2 (50) + 2 (84) + 2 (65.625) = 100 + 168 + 131.25 = 399.25 sq. ins

Total surface area of second box = 2 (9 * 5.5) + 2 (9 * 11.75) + 2 (5.5 * 11.75) = 2 (49.5) + 2 (105.75) + 2 (64.625) = 99 + 211.5 + 129.25 = 439.75 sq. ins

Hence, the second box requires more material to make.